Nagpur :- As per the NCC, Govt of India mandate and PMO directions on National Integration, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat – II Maharashtra Camp was successfully conducted from 08 to 19 December 2025 at NCC OTA Kamptee, under the aegis of NCC Group Headquarters Nagpur and organised by 4 Maharashtra Battalion NCC. The camp was aimed at strengthening national integration and fostering unity in diversity by bringing together youth from different cultural, linguistic, and geographical backgrounds of India.
The camp witnessed the participation of 600 NCC cadets, comprising 450 boy and girl cadets from Maharashtra Directorate and 150 Senior Division and Senior Wing cadets from Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andaman & Nicobar Directorates. Cadets from Kolhapur, Mumbai ‘A’ and ‘B’, Sambhaji Nagar, Pune, Nagpur, and Amravati Groups represented the host directorate. The camp was supported by 35 NCC and Armed Forces officers and staff, ensuring its safe, disciplined, and smooth conduct.
A major highlight of the camp was the National Integration Awareness Programme (NIAP). All seven groups of Maharashtra Directorate presented detailed modules on the state’s history, culture, art forms, festivals, economy, geography, and notable personalities. Guest Directorates showcased the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands through presentations and live cultural performances. The cross-cultural programme held on 17 December 2025 transformed the camp arena into a vibrant display of India’s unity in diversity through traditional dances, music, folk art, and customs.
To enhance awareness and motivation, cadets participated in several educational and military exposure visits. At Air Force Station Sonegaon, cadets were introduced to Indian Air Force operations, including interactions with IAF Garud Commandos and exposure to helicopter and transport aircraft operations. A historical trek to Sitabuldi Fort provided insight into military heritage while promoting physical endurance and teamwork. The visit to the Brigade of the Guards offered cadets an enriching exposure to Army training and operational ethos through combat briefings, parade demonstrations, drone operations, and a visit to the regimental museum.
The camp also focused on personality development and creativity through competitions such as debate, extempore, poster making, sketching, and rangoli depicting regional and cultural themes. Sports competitions, including cricket, volleyball, kho-kho, and other field events, showcased the energy, discipline, and sportsmanship of the cadets.
Cadets were introduced to Maharashtrian heritage and cuisine, including traditional delicacies such as Misal Pav, Vada Pav, Tarri Pohe, Saoji, and Puran Poli, alongside the cultural flavours of Tamil traditions. The camp symbolised the coming together of the valour of Maharashtra and the glorious legacy of the peninsular Cholas, reinforcing the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
The camp was further enriched by the visit of a 10-member EXPA team, which conducted skill development, team-building, and personality development sessions over two days. A unique Buddy Triplet System, comprising one cadet from the guest directorate and two from Maharashtra, fostered long-lasting friendships, enhanced cultural exchange, and strengthened national integration.
The organisers expressed sincere gratitude to NCC OTA Kamptee for excellent infrastructure and administrative support; Brigade of the Guards, UMANG Sub Area, and Kamptee Military Station for their cooperation and facilitation of military exposure activities; Air Force Station Sonegaon and HQ Maintenance Command for providing operational insights into the Indian Air Force; and PRO Defence for effective media coordination. Appreciation was also extended to all NCC Units under NCC Group Headquarters Nagpur for their dedicated efforts.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Gp Capt Khushal Vyas, Camp Commandant, EBSB – II said, “The Ek Bharat Shreshtha Camp has reaffirmed our belief that the youth of our nation are the true architects of a united India. The enthusiasm and camaraderie displayed by the cadets are a testament to the power of national integration.”
The Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat – II Maharashtra Camp concluded on a high note, awarding certificates to all participants and a pledge to carry forward the spirit of unity back to their respective NCC units. The camp ends leaving behind lasting memories, strong bonds of friendship, and a renewed commitment among cadets towards unity, harmony, and national pride—true to the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”